Analysis of k−Stage Automated Production Flow Lines with Recirculating Conveyor Buffer Storage

This paper examines the production rate, expected buffer storage level, and part transit time for k−stage automated production flow lines with closed-loop, recirculating conveyor buffers. Analytical models are developed for the performance of the recirculating conveyor buffer. Computer simulation results are presented to validate these analytical models and to compare the operational performance of these recirculating conveyor systems with that of k−stage systems having classical static buffer storage.